NewVIc Sports Development Officer Scoops AoC Sports Hall of Fame Award
NewVIc Sports Development Officer, Paul Nathaniel, has won an AoC Sports Hall of Fame Award!
The award recognises the exemplary service of AoC sport members who have shown consistent commitment and made a significant contribution to college sport activity.
Katie Harris, NewVIc Sports Academy Manager, said:
“Paul has been an integral member of the NewVIc Sports Academy team for 8 years. In that time he has helped hundreds of NewVIc students to get actively involved in sports enrichment, developed and coached students to compete at County and National level in Football with the AoC, taken the Ability Counts football team to regionals and supported the London cricket and badminton teams at national level.
“He really is an inspiration to our students across all sports in our academy, often giving up his freetime to help anyone and ensure they are getting the very best out themselves to develop further, a real team player and an incredible asset to our college.
“He goes above and beyond to ensure that transferable life skills are embedded within his sessions, focusing on developing student’s confidence, character, commitment and passion for the game - especially with those new to playing in a team environment.
“He is passionate about delivering the highest quality opportunities for all of our students and he is a positive role model for both students and staff alike.”
Sufyan Muktar, NewVIc Sports Development Officer, said:
“Over the last two years Paul has worked immensely hard to get the female football game up and running. He organised and delivered various Female Football Festivals, including a Female Futsal Festival where he engaged 6 local colleges in partnership with the Leyton Orient Trust. He was able to get Leyton Orient's 1st Team Captain, Omar Beckles and other players from the Female 1st team to inspire the next generation, empowering over 50 females to start their journey into being active and playing football in a competitive but sociable environment.
“Paul also jumped at the chance to run a pilot scheme, ‘Stepping over the lines’, working with the FA and AoC. He knew it would be a great benefit to our students looking to get into football. In addition, Paul secured funding to run a FA referee course - which was broadened to include other local colleges and local young people - opening up opportunities to communities which have historically been under-represented in this area. All students successfully passed their FA officiating Course and were delighted to secure paid work within the football industry.
Chloe, a NewVIc student, added her praise:
“Paul helped to dramatically increase female football at NewVic.When I first started it pretty much didn't exist but with Paul's push to increase participation we had a team and a tournament to compete against other colleges. He got me the opportunity to trial out for Leyton Orient U18 and I have now been there for two years and really enjoying it! Paul has not only helped me during sport but in life in general by giving advice. For example, advice about university with the subjects I would like to. Also, encouraging me to apply for scholarships.
“Paul is a genuine, kind and caring person that wants to get the best out of each individual student by giving them opportunities, advice and just being there if you need any help.”
Meo, a NewVIc Alumni, said: “Paul has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional growth. As a mentor, Paul has inspired me to strive and achieve my dreams. He is way more just than a teacher - he is a hard working, determined, resilient and remarkable mentor, but what truly sets him apart is his selflessness and willingness to go the extra mile to uplift those around him. He celebrates the successes of others as if they were his own.”